Cream Cheese Lemon Bars
Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors with Cream Cheese Lemon Bars! In this recipe, we combine the tangy brightness of lemons with the creamy richness of cream cheese to create a dessert that is both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re a fan of citrus desserts or simply looking for a new treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these lemon bars are sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why you’ll fall in love with these Cream Cheese Lemon Bars. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Secondly, the combination of the zesty lemon filling and the buttery crust is simply heavenly. Lastly, these bars have a luscious and velvety texture that will melt in your mouth with each bite.
Not only are these bars delicious, but they also offer some dietary benefits. Lemons are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which can boost your immune system and aid in digestion. Additionally, the creamy filling provides a good source of calcium and protein from the cream cheese, making these bars a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until it forms a crumbly dough.
4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
5. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.
6. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
7. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
8. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, and vanilla extract until well combined.
9. Pour the filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
10. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
11. Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
12. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow them to firm up.
13. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Expert Tips for Success
– Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
– For a more intense lemon flavor, you can add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest.
– If you prefer a sweeter crust, you can increase the amount of powdered sugar in the crust mixture.
Variations and Substitutions
There are various ways to customize these Cream Cheese Lemon Bars:
– You can add a graham cracker crust instead of the traditional buttery crust for a different flavor profile.
– If you’re not a fan of lemons, you can substitute the lemon juice and zest with other citrus fruits like lime or orange.
– For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
Serving Suggestions
Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are perfect on their own, but you can enhance the experience by serving them with a few accompaniments:
– A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a delightful creamy element.
– Serve with a side of mixed berries for a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
– Pair with a cup of hot tea or a refreshing glass of iced tea for a complete afternoon treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these bars in advance?
A: Absolutely! These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze the bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing.
Q: How do I store the leftovers?
A: Leftover Cream Cheese Lemon Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Final Thoughts
Cream Cheese Lemon Bars are a true delight that brings together the zingy freshness of lemons and the smooth creaminess of cream cheese. With their buttery crust and velvety filling, these bars offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or simply want to treat yourself to something special, these bars are a must-try. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in a slice of lemony bliss!
We hope you enjoy making and devouring these Cream Cheese Lemon Bars as much as we do. Remember to share your baking adventures with us and spread the joy of this delightful recipe!
Cream Cheese Lemon Bars
Cream Cheese Lemon Bars combine the tangy brightness of lemons with the creamy richness of cream cheese, creating a refreshing and indulgent dessert. The buttery crust and velvety filling offer a burst of flavor in every bite, making them a must-try treat.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
-
Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until it forms a crumbly dough.
-
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
-
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.
-
While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
-
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
-
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, and vanilla extract until well combined.
-
Pour the filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
-
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden.
-
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
-
Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow them to firm up.
-
Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
